Confused about the difference between category and genre?
Understanding the distinctions between the book industry terms category and genre can sharpen your writing focus, help you connect with the right audience, and enhance your publishing success.
By Michael Heath / selfpublishingUS.com
Many writers mistakenly refer to “young adult” as a genre, when in fact, it’s a category.
Genre refers to the type of story being told—whether it’s romance, fantasy, mystery, or sci-fi—while category speaks to the target age group, like young adult, middle grade, or adult.
Why Category and Genre Matter for Your Book’s Success
Understanding the difference between category and genre is crucial for authors because these terms shape how a book is marketed, sold, and perceived by readers and industry professionals.
When authors use the correct terms, they convey a professional understanding of the publishing landscape. The book industry relies heavily on categories and genres to organize, market, and sell books effectively. Categories, like Young Adult or Adult, focus on the target audience's age, while genres, such as Fantasy or Mystery, define the content, style, and themes. By understanding these distinctions, publishers can accurately categorize books, target specific audiences, and recommend relevant titles. This ensures that books reach the right readers, maximizing sales and fostering a thriving literary community.
Category vs. Genre: A Writer's Guide
Having a clear understanding of category and genre helps authors define who they’re writing for, even before they start typing. For instance, younger readers often need books with shorter lengths and simpler plots than those written for adults. Additionally, writing in a genre you know and love—whether it’s Western, science fiction, or historical romance—enables you to draw from authentic experiences and interests, creating a richer story. Imagine an author who grew up in the Midwest among ranchers and cowboys; they might be more naturally suited to writing a Western than a vampire romance. This alignment between category, genre, and personal experience strengthens the story and makes it more engaging.
Categories
Categories tell whether the story is true or not, and often indicates how old the audience is. Examples of categories would be:
fiction
non-fiction
middle grade (8 to 11 years old)
young adult (11 to 18 years old)
new adult (18 to 24 years old)
adult-themed (18 years of age or older).
Genres
Genres tell the reader something of what the book is about; i.e. its form, style or content. Some examples of genres would be:
romance
science fiction
memoir
mystery
histories
horror
and adventure.
The Importance of Category and Genere Distinctions for Authors, Booksellers, and Readers!
Understanding the difference between category and genre is crucial for authors, booksellers, and readers alike. Here's why:
While authors are writing their book manuscript, their understanding of their intended category and genre will save time by focusing on their word count, themes, and language for a more satisfying writing process.
Bookstores and libraries also rely on clear category and genre distinctions to shelve and promote your book correctly, ensuring it reaches the right readers. Even online, search engines depend on accurate genre and category tags to recommend your book to the appropriate audience.
Readers rely on books being in the appropriate categories and genres. It helps readers to find, select, and enjoy books that resonate with their tastes and interests.
First Book: Research Category & Genre Before Writing
If you’re writing your first book, a bit of research on category and genre goes a long way. Decide which category and genre your book falls under, and review suggested word counts for your target audience. Consider the language and themes you’ll use to ensure they’re age-appropriate and engaging. Taking these steps not only enhances the reading experience but also positions your book for success in a competitive market.
The Power of Category and Genre
Ultimately, understanding both your book’s category and genre is essential for reaching your intended audience and achieving your goals. It ensures that your work is not only categorized correctly but also marketed to attract the right readers—helping your story stand out in a crowded marketplace. Whether you’re focused on building a loyal readership or simply aiming to sell more books, mastering these distinctions can make all the difference in your publishing journey.
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initially published 2019
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